Why toughened glass partitions are the best option for public spaces
Thanks to the unparalleled combination of aesthetics and practicality that glass partitions and glass walls provide, this material is used in most buildings and structures across the world.
Of course, there are many kinds of glass available, and different applications will require varying types and thicknesses to fulfil their specific purpose. But when it comes to public spaces in particular, using toughened glass is a must.
Toughened glass goes through a heating and cooling process known as tempering, which changes the internal stresses of the glass and increases its resistance against high temperatures and impacts.
Being several times stronger than standard float glass, toughened glass partitions and walls are perfect for high-traffic public places, as they are robust enough to endure everyday wear and tear both indoors and outside.
Anything less is out of the question – but if you’re wondering why, this blog explains how toughened glass can be utilised in public spaces and the benefits of doing so.
Where can toughened glass be used?
The definition of a public space can vary, as this term generally refers to open outdoor spaces like streets, parks, and beaches, but it can also refer to closed indoor spaces like transport hubs, libraries, and museums.
They can be either completely free or commercial spaces that require payment to spend recreational time there – such as a space for the provision of goods or services, be it for entertainment, education, or healthcare.
Places accessible to the general public that can use glass partitions for their benefit include:
- Playgrounds, parks, public gardens
- Street markets and shopping centres
- Shops, cafés, restaurants, pubs, bars
- Hotels, theatres, cinemas, music venues
- Libraries, museums, galleries, heritage sites
- Sports grounds, gyms, leisure facilities
- Schools, universities, research centres
- GP clinics, hospitals, care homes
- Bus stations, train stations, airports
From guiding foot traffic and queues to separating waiting or dining areas, toughened glass partitions are the best material for public spaces because they create strong barriers and dividers that don’t block the light or create a blot on the landscape.
Helping to protect crowds of people whilst keeping these areas bright and visually appealing, so everyone feels comfortable.
What are the benefits of toughened glass?
There are undoubtedly many advantages of glass partitions, but here are the main reasons why toughened glass partitions are the go-to option for protective barriers in public spaces:
Durability
Being much tougher than untampered glass, toughened glass won’t break easily from people leaning against it or minor accidental impacts. It can be strengthened even further by combining two panes of toughened glass into laminated glass, which are sealed together with a strong polymer interlayer.
Safety & Security
Toughened glass is also known as safety glass because it’s designed to be highly resilient. In the event it shatters, it will break into blunt pieces, which is much safer than shards with sharp edges. Laminated glass is even safer, because broken panes on either side will still be held in place by the middle layer.
Legal Compliance
Any kind of partition, wall, or door must meet strict minimum standards to ensure the design is functional and safe, which are set out by UK Building Regulations and British and European Safety Standards. These are especially stringent in public settings, where the risk level is higher due to increased usage.
Customisability
Within the categories of toughened glass and toughened laminated glass barriers, there are more options than just clear. Not only can you use frosted or tinted glass and different styles of metal fittings to adjust their look and function, but you can also apply manifestations to the glass, such as business branding.
Noise Reduction
Depending on its thickness, toughened glass can help to limit the transmission of noise throughout a space, providing a layer of sound insulation. If needed, acoustic glass can be used, which is specially designed to muffle noise up to a certain level – for example, our acoustic glass can insulate against sounds between 28dB–57dB.
Minimal Upkeep
As these materials are highly resistant to stains and scratches, toughened glass partitions and their durable metal fittings will hold up against wear and tear without showing it for a long time. It takes a while for grime to build up enough to be noticeable, so maintenance generally involves simply wiping them down and checking for faults periodically.
Order bespoke toughened glass partitions
As you can see, toughened glass is a top solution for partitions, balustrades, walls, screens, doors, and more in public spaces for good reason. However, these structures are only as good as their design – to install high-quality, safe, and attractive glass partitions, you’ll need help from professional suppliers and fitters.
Here at Glass Interiors, we manufacture and install a range of toughened glass products, providing a start-to-finish design service that allows you to customise your glass partition system to suit the needs of your public space perfectly.
With over 20 years of experience in this industry, you can rely on us to deliver impressive glass partition solutions – so why not get in touch with our team to discuss what you’re looking for?
Call us on 0203 793 5455 to find out more, or email your enquiry to info@glass-interiors.co.uk and we’ll get back to you to set up a consultation, where we can talk through your ideas and provide a free no-obligation quote!
